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Van Cleef & Arpels Malachite and Diamond Pisces Zodiac Pendant

$39,500

Dating from the 1970s, this Pisces pendant by Van Cleef & Arpels is composed of 18K gold, diamond, and emeralds. The ribbed bail suspends a circular pendant, within ropetwist frame, depicting a pair of fish in high relief textured 18K gold, with emerald eyes, encircling a starfish centering a diamond, atop of tablet of malachite with patterning resembling swirling sea water, the reverse with two conforming starfish. Playful and fun, this astrological pendant represents the freedom and spiritual curiosity of the 1970s, combined with the contemporary passion for chunky gold and rich color.

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  • Product Details
  • Curator's Notes

Item #: PT-20559
Artist: Van Cleef & Arpels
Country: France
Circa: 1970s 
Size:  33.75” length (chain); 2.25” diameter (pendant) 
Materials: 1 round-cut diamond (approximate total weight 0.05 carat);  3 round-cut emeralds (approximate total weight 0.15 carat); Malachite; 18K gold (44.8 grams/69.6 dwt)
Signed: VC&A, French assay marks, no. 1957

Van Cleef & Arpels’ “Zodiaque” designs were fist introduced in the 1950s, and reappeared during the 1970s, when astrology enjoyed a strong revival of interest. The 1970s pendants, larger and more intricate, featured colorful enamels, hardstones, and gems. The twelfth sign of the zodiac, and associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love, Pisces is depicted as a pair of fish, and represents those born between February 19-March 20. Pisces are characterized as spiritual, selfless and creative. The two fish represent the dual aspects of Pisceans, who feel an equal influence of humans’ earthly nature and divine soul. The sign is traditionally associated with deep sea green.
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